Old Icelandic Parliament Site | Thingvellir

The Old Icelandic Parliament Site refers to the location in Þingvellir National Park where the Alþingi, Iceland’s first and one of the oldest parliaments in the world, was established in 930 CE. The Alþingi served as a central governing body for the people of Iceland for centuries, and its significance is still celebrated in modern Iceland. Here's a detailed look at the Alþingi's historical site:

Establishment and Historical Significance

The Birth of Iceland’s Parliamentary System:

• The Alþingi (translated as "All-Thing") was founded at Þingvellir in 930 CE by the Icelandic settlers, who had established the nation as an independent community. The assembly was a response to the need for a system to resolve disputes, enact laws, and govern the growing population of Iceland.
• This marks the beginning of Iceland’s legal and democratic traditions, making the Alþingi one of the oldest continuous parliamentary bodies in the world.

Purpose of the Alþingi:

• The primary role of the Alþingi was to meet annually, hear legal cases, and make decisions about the governance of Iceland. It was also a place for law-making, judging disputes, and upholding Icelandic laws. The Lawspeaker (Lögsögumaður) recited the laws from Law Rock (Lögberg), which was an essential part of the assembly.
• The parliament also acted as a court of law, with the Lawspeaker as its main judicial authority. The presence of the Lawspeaker on Law Rock was symbolic of the country's reliance on oral traditions and public declarations of law.

Law Rock and the Assembly

Law Rock (Lögberg):

• At Law Rock, the Lawspeaker would stand and recite Iceland's laws to the assembled people. The location of Law Rock within Þingvellir is strategically chosen, providing a prominent position in the Almannagjá Gorge, offering visibility and accessibility to large crowds.
• Law Rock was not just a ceremonial place, but a functional one, where the laws were communicated to both the chieftains and the common people, who gathered at Þingvellir for the annual sessions of the Alþingi.

The Site of Legal Proclamations:

• Laws were traditionally spoken aloud during these gatherings, as there was no written language for much of Iceland's early history. The annual meetings of the Alþingi ensured that Icelandic laws were widely known and that all members of society had access to legal rulings.
• As the years passed, these public declarations formed the foundation of Icelandic law and laid the groundwork for Iceland’s future legal system.

The Alþingi’s Role and Structure

The Annual Assembly:

• The Alþingi met every summer at Þingvellir for two weeks, and it was a key moment in Icelandic society where laws were passed, disputes were settled, and leaders were chosen. All Icelandic chieftains (goðar) would gather along with their followers to discuss matters of governance.
• The assembly was also a social occasion, as it allowed Icelanders from across the country to gather, meet, and engage in commerce.

Formation of the Lawspeaker and the Legislative Body:

• The Lawspeaker (Lögsögumaður) was the leader of the Alþingi, responsible for maintaining order and interpreting the laws. The Lawspeaker was elected by the chieftains and had significant power in shaping the legal proceedings.
• Over time, the assembly grew and evolved, adding more legislative and judicial roles, and it became a symbol of Icelandic democracy.

The Thing – A Democratic Forum:

• The Þing (assembly) was unique because it was open to all free men, including commoners, which made it one of the earliest forms of public participation in governance.
• Icelandic chieftains, or goðar, represented groups of people and acted as the official representatives at the assembly. Their role included supporting the community’s decisions and facilitating the passage of laws. This early democratic model was an important influence on Iceland's political system today.

Cultural and National Significance

Foundations of Icelandic Governance:

• The establishment of the Alþingi marked the beginning of Iceland's self-government and legal tradition, which laid the foundation for the modern Icelandic state.
• The Old Icelandic Parliament Site represents Iceland’s commitment to a democratic society, where the rule of law and fair representation were prioritized.

Symbol of Icelandic Identity:

• Þingvellir, and by extension, the Old Icelandic Parliament Site, became a central symbol of Icelandic identity, especially during the struggle for independence from Denmark in the 19th and early 20th centuries.
• Icelanders regard the Alþingi as a symbol of their unique political and cultural heritage, and the site at Þingvellir is cherished as a testament to Iceland's deep roots in democratic governance.

Modern Day Legacy

UNESCO World Heritage Site:

• Þingvellir National Park, including the Old Icelandic Parliament Site, was designated as a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 2004 due to its historical, cultural, and geological significance. The park is recognized not only for its role in Iceland’s democratic history but also for its exceptional geological features, such as the Þingvellir Rift Zone.

Iceland's Modern Parliament:

• While the Alþingi no longer meets at Þingvellir (it moved to Reykjavik in 1798), the Alþingi remains Iceland’s legislative body, continuing the traditions of lawmaking, governance, and public participation that started at the Old Icelandic Parliament Site.
• The Alþingi is a symbol of Iceland’s sovereignty, and Þingvellir is often used for ceremonial purposes, especially on national holidays or occasions to commemorate the country’s democratic principles.

Tourism and Education:

• The Old Icelandic Parliament Site is a popular tourist destination, with many visitors coming to Þingvellir National Park to learn about the origins of Iceland’s legal system and governance. The park offers interpretive centers and guided tours that educate visitors about the history of the Alþingi and the significance of the site.

Celebrations and Commemorations:

• Þingvellir continues to be a site of national pride, where Icelanders celebrate their heritage and governance. The site is also used to mark significant events in Iceland's history, such as Independence Day and other national celebrations.

Conclusion

The Old Icelandic Parliament Site in Þingvellir National Park is a pivotal location in the history of Iceland. As the birthplace of the Alþingi, it represents the origins of Icelandic democracy, law, and self-governance. The site’s deep historical roots and continued significance as a symbol of national identity make it one of the most important cultural landmarks in Iceland. Whether for historical education, personal reflection, or appreciation of Iceland's role in the evolution of democratic systems, the Old Icelandic Parliament Site at Þingvellir remains a powerful connection to the past.